Introduction

davidbeinct

Here, I cribbed my intro from the bicycling.com forum, since then I've noted that you guys seem to actually discuss... cycling!

I've been an avid cyclist off and on since around 14, but unfortunately mostly off for a good number of years now. My good bikes have been a Kabuki, a Univega, a Specialized Expedition (the old tourer, not the new hybrid) and my current ride, a GT ZR4000. I picked that last one up about 6 years ago with good intentions, but after one season it sat.

After letting myself get to ~260 lbs. (I'm 5'9") and finding out my younger brother had just been diagnosed with Type II Diabetes, I decided enough was enough. Using the carrot of a charity motorcycle ride across Italy (since cancelled, unfortunately), I returned to exercise and eating much better. I've been hitting the gym pretty much every day since late December, and dusted off the GT in early August, probably logged about 400 miles since then, longest ride a 63 miler labor day. I'm now at 196 lbs. and have a new carrot, a new bicycle at 180. I'm leaning towards either Bianchi or Jamis high end steel/carbon frame. (Note that since then I've ridden an '07 Trek Madone and may go that way, I also may not wait until 180, given the chance those bikes will all be gone by then.)

My riding is fitness/enjoyment, I have two goals for next year, a century and a 10K time trial averaging 20 mph. I know I can do the century, I have no problem eating up miles, eating up clock is another matter (i.e. I'm slow).

The Expedition is still gathering dust, I have no desire to tour anymore, I like the motorcycle (a Ducati Monster) for that.

Thanks for letting me ramble.

David B.